Bacolod to expand cash aid for seniors age 75 up

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Sangguniang Panlungsod is moving to expand Bacolod’s cash incentive program for senior citizens by lowering the eligibility age from 80 to 75 and doubling the annual budget to PHP 10 million.

The proposal, authored by Councilor Caesar Distrito and co-authored by Councilor Celia Flor, was approved on first reading and seeks to amend City Ordinance No. 910, Series of 2019, also known as the Ladderized Cash Incentive Centenarian Award Ordinance of Bacolod City.

“This amendment reflects our commitment to recognize and support our senior citizens earlier in their twilight years, especially given the increasing challenges they face,” Distrito said. “It’s about inclusivity and dignity.”

Under the proposed structure, qualified seniors will receive PHP 10,000 at each of the following milestones: ages 75–80, 81–90, and 91–99.

A final incentive will be granted at age 100, provided the recipient has received the earlier milestone benefits.

If a qualified senior dies before receiving the incentive, the nearest family member or guardian may claim it upon verification, as stated in City Ordinance No. 670, Series of 2014.

To support the expanded coverage, the proposed measure increases the program’s funding from PHP 5 million to PHP 10 million per year.

“This is a way to express our gratitude to our elders who helped shape the community we enjoy today,” Flor said in a statement.

“Recognizing them while they are still with us is a moral obligation,” she added.